Silver Lake Provincial Park Trail

Silver Lake Provincial Park Trail is a short, super mellow out-and-back walk just off Highway 7 near Hope, BC, tucked beside the clear waters of Silver Lake. At only 2.9 km with 43 m of gain, it’s more of a relaxed wander than a workout, usually done in about 40 minutes. It’s a nice little leg-stretcher if you’re camping in Silver Lake Provincial Park or breaking up a drive through the Fraser Valley.

The trail follows the lakeshore and low forest, with filtered views of the water and surrounding hills as you go. Elevation is minimal, so you’re mostly walking on gentle, rolling ground with the odd root or rock underfoot. It’s quiet, not heavily trafficked, and has that low-key, damp-coastal-forest feel that’s classic around Hope.

Recent hikers report that Silver Lake Provincial Park Trail becomes quite overgrown about halfway along, so be ready for some light bushwhacking and branches brushing your legs and arms. Long pants are a smart call, and you’ll want decent footwear in case sections are muddy after rain. The route is very easy from a fitness standpoint and works most of the year, but late spring through early fall is the most comfortable window, with winter seeing more slick spots and fewer people maintaining the path.